Press Releases

K-9 Frankie Dies Unexpectedly After Nine Years of Loyal Service

With much sadness, Assistant Director for Institutions and Operations David McCauley shared the news with Rhode Island Department of Corrections personnel Last Friday that Frankie, Correctional Officer Anthony Lucca's K-9, had passed away unexpectedly. Frankie showed signs of sickness on Thursday of last week and was brought to the veterinarian, where he spent the night. Due to the nature of his illness, he had to be put down Friday morning to avoid further suffering.

A German Shepherd, Frankie was ten years old and had nine years of loyal service to the Department and the state of Rhode Island. He worked with almost all of the police departments around the state, the Department of Environmental Affairs, postal inspectors, U.S. Customs, and airport security to name a few. He is credited with numerous drug and cash seizures and during his tenure was responsible for the confiscation of an estimated $100,000 in cash alone.

Less than three weeks ago on April 21st, Frankie and Officer Lucca, along with K-9 Commander Steve Hauser and his K-9, Robbie, represented the RIDOC at McCoy Stadium's first ever "Bark in the Park" event where fans could bring their dogs to the game, pet-related vendors handed out dog-related items, dogs and families were invited to join in a parade on the field, and photos were taken of families with their dogs.

According to McCauley, "Frankie was undisputedly the best K-9 the RIDOC has ever had. He was so much more than a dog; he was a valuable member of this department and will truly be missed by many."